This cozy and comforting hot Apple Cider Bourbon cocktail is the perfect blend of classic flavors for your Autumn gatherings.
Note: This recipe is intended for readers 21 and up; please enjoy responsibly.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
A smooth caramel notes from the bourbon combines with tart apples to create a complex and delicious flavor combination that pairs perfectly with evenings by the fire.
This hot Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail is the perfect easy-to-make beverage to get the festivities started. Combining three of fall’s best flavors - apple cider, cinnamon, and bourbon - this hot cocktail will have guests raving about its beautiful presentation, bold flavor, and smooth richness.
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Ingredients
With just a few simple ingredients, you don’t need to be a master mixologist to create this hot, hand warming cocktail. Get ready for compliments on what's sure to be an unforgettable end to your evening!
- Apple Cider or Apple Juice - regular bottled in the grocery aisle is fine.
- Cinnamon Sticks - about 3" - 4" lengths. You will need one for each mug, plus 3 for the simmering pot.
- Cloves - use whole cloves
- Orange - any orange will work, even tangerines or Mandarins.
- Apples - aim for green, red, and mixed colored apples for a variety of color. One of each is perfect.
- Bourbon - try to get a good barrel aged bourbon, as it is smoother. Get whatever brand you prefer.
- Honey - Optional, if you like your beverage sweet, you can add a little honey also.
Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make a Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail
Perfect for any gathering - whether it be an intimate dinner with friends or a more extravagant party - this hot Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail is sure to delight! Apples, bourbon, and cinnamon make this fall bourbon cocktail tart yet sweet.
Slices Apples and Oranges
- Cut the orange into slices. Core and slice the apples. Break any long cinnamon sticks into 3" pieces.
Simmer Cider and Fruit
- Place the apple cider or juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, and cut apples into a medium size pot over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
Add Bourbon and Serve
- Remove the pot from heat. Using a slotted spoon, lift out the pieces of cooked fruit and spices.
- Stir in the bourbon, and serve this bourbon cider cocktail in mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and thin apple wedge slices. Serve immediately.
You can also make bourbon cider cocktail in a Crockpot. Add the cider, spices, and fruit and set on the high setting for 2 hours. Lift the cooked fruit and spice out with a slotted spoon. Add the bourbon and stir. Serve immediately, garnishing with cinnamon stick and extra apple slices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this warming cocktail for an outdoor marshmallow roast, an evening by the fire, or even to adult Christmas carolers. A hot mug of bourbon Apple Cider will warm them up from the inside out.
For some additional spirited cocktails to offer your guests, see our Grasshopper Martini, Cranberry Mimosa, and Winter Wassail drinks.
Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
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Substitutions
If you are feeling REALLY adventurous, you can substitute non alcoholic apple cider for hard apple cider. You can also make this a non alcoholic mocktail simply by omitting the bourbon. You can add a ½ teaspoon of Rum flavoring if you want a little more depth of flavor in your apple cider mocktail.
Variations
Some great ideas on flavor variations:
- Cranberries - add some fresh cranberries to the simmering pot of apple cider, and garnish the mugs with cranberries also.
- Pears - Sliced pears pair well with the apples if you prefer them to oranges.
- Star Anise or Allspice Berries - Use either or both of these lovely whole spices in the simmer pot or as garnish.
Equipment
Equipment can have a big impact on how a recipe turns out. You can make a family size batch of this bourbon cider cocktail, or you can use a crockpot to make large party size batch.
Storage
Remove any remaining fruit and spices from any leftover bourbon and apple cider mixture. Pour into a pitcher glass jar and seal. Keep in the refrigerator, and pour into mugs. Microwave for 1 minute to reheat.
Tips for Success
- Using a crockpot allows your Apple Cider bourbon cocktail to stay hot for an extended duration during a party.
- Do not leave the cinnamon and cloves in the simmering pot for more than 30 minutes, as they will slowly turn the apple cider a little bitter over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, a great idea is to pour some leftovers into an ice cube tray and freeze. Store the frozen bourbon apple cocktail mixture in a freezer bag. Pull out and pop into a glass of sparkling wine or water for a great summer cooler.
Food Safety
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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📖 Recipe
Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail
Ingredients
- 64 oz Apple Cider or Apple Juice
- 6 Cinnamon sticks about 3" long
- 12 Cloves whole
- 4 Apples varied colors, cored and sliced - skins on
- 2 Oranges Sliced into thin circles, peels left on
- 2 cups Bourbon
- 8 Cinnamon stick extra - one per mug
- 2 Apples extra to garnish each mug
- Honey optional, use to taste if you want a sweeter cocktail
Instructions
- Cut the orange into slices. Core and slice the apples. Break any long cinnamon sticks into 3" pieces.4 Apples, 2 Oranges
- Place the apple cider or juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, and cut apples into a medium size pot over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes.64 oz Apple Cider, 12 Cloves, 6 Cinnamon sticks
- Remove the pot from heat. Using a slotted spoon, lift out the pieces of cooked fruit and spices. Stir in the bourbon, and serve this bourbon cider cocktail in mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and thin apple wedge slices. Add honey to taste if desired. Serve immediately.2 cups Bourbon, 8 Cinnamon stick, 2 Apples, Honey
Notes
- Using a crockpot allows your Apple Cider bourbon cocktail to stay hot for an extended duration during a party.
- Do not leave the cinnamon and cloves in the simmering pot for more than 30 minutes, as they will slowly turn the apple cider a little bitter over time.
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